Tulsa's Nyenhuis named Russell Lineman of the Year

Wednesday August 18, 2010

TULSA- Tulsa defensive end Gabe Nyenhuis has been named the Arena Football League’s Lineman of the Year, the league office announced today. A constant threat to offenses, Nyenhuis tallied up impressive numbers while aiding the Talons in reaching the postseason in their inaugural season with the AFL.

While Nyenhuis (6-4, 260, Colorado) tallied 21 unassisted and 11 assisted tackles on the season, it was the quarterback that was his favorite target. He nabbed a spectacular 15.5 sacks on the season, breaking the previous sack record of 15 set by Greg White (Orlando) in 2007.

Additionally, Nyenhuis made 13 tackle-for-losses, a league high. He was also credited with four pass breakups, two fumble recoveries and nine forced fumbles in his standout year.

Nyenhuis is no stranger to the indoor game. He has played arena football for three seasons, including a season with the 2008 ArenaBowl Champion Philadelphia Soul, where he recorded 9.5 sacks on the year and was named to the Second Team All-Arena team.

In the past, Nyenhuis has signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Atlanta Falcons, Indianapolis Colts, Philadelphia Soul and Saskatchewan Roughriders.

About AFL

Since its inception in 1987, the AFL has afforded the fast-paced and exciting game of Arena Football to millions of fans in a myriad of markets across the country. A recent deal with the NFL Network will broadcast an AFL National Game of the Week for the entire regular and post season on Friday nights at 8:00 pm EST, culminating with the ArenaBowl Championship Game in August.